Discover Rúpac, a place known as the 'Machu Picchu of Lima'

Near to Lima, you can find an architectural gem. Known as the "Machu Picchu of Lima", the archaeological complex of Rúpac is a great destination for those who seek to disconnect from the city without going far, live experiences in the middle of nature and learn more about of the pre-Inca culture of the Atavillos.

Located on a mountain -at 3,500 meters high-, the citadel is kept in perfect condition as if its builders still lived in this enigmatic and remote place. To get there, it is a three hours trip from Lima (by car) and also a three-hour walk from the town of Pampas, which is why many trekking lovers come to this place to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and sunsets that beautify the view of the entire valley.

Domain from above

Known as one of the pre-Inca warriors cultures of the province of Lima, the Atavillos occupied the tops of the mountains near the coast in order to establish a defense system from the heights against eventual attacks. Their privileged ability to build allowed them to construct more than 50 buildings on the tops of high mountains, in order to have a panoramic view of the area, monitor the crops, and protect the population from diseases such as warts and malaria.

In its settlement areas, you can find a large number of elevated towers up to 15 meters high called chullpas, mainly used as viewpoints, which are currently kept in perfect condition. Also, when visiting the area, you can see stairs, warehouses, patios and chimneys with stone roofs that resist the passing of the years.

In this area we can find a large number of towering towers up to 15 meters high. Credit: John Prado / PromPerú.

Getting there

To get to this important pre-Inca citadel from Lima, you must take a bus to Huaral (2 hours approximately). From there, you will have to take a car to the town of Las Pampas - it is 3 and a half hours long -. This is where the 6 km walk to Rúpac begins, which can take approximately 4 hours, depending on the physical state of the person.

The tour offers places to camp and spend the night for those who want to enjoy the beautiful sunrise in the middle of a photographic landscape. We recommend that you carry a tent, a sleeping bag, trekking shoes, warm and comfortable clothing and a bottle of water. The best time to visit this archaeological site is during the summer months when the sky is clearer and you can better appreciate the beautiful sunsets that accompany the place.

To visit this important pre-Inca citadel from Lima, you must travel by bus or car to the city of Huaral. Credit: John Prado / PromPerú.

Sources: Waman Adventures / América TV / Perú Info / Tierra Viva Hoteles / El Comercio / Estamos Bien Ma

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